WHAT WAS THE PROBLEM THAT NEEDED TO BE SOLVED?
Jet fighter pilots need to react quickly in both crisis situations involving threats from hostile missiles and routine situations where they constantly need to identify the location of other colleagues in the air. Traditional alarm systems in fighter jets only provide a general warning without precise direction, which can delay the pilot's reaction time.

WHAT WAS THE SOLUTION?
Researchers at AAU developed a 3D sound system that can be used for advanced audio technology, creating a spatial sound experience. The perception of space and direction of sound is achieved through time-shifted audio signals. For example, if a sound comes from the left, it will reach the left ear slightly before the right ear, and the sound will also be slightly louder in the left ear. The frequency of the sound, which humans perceive as pitch, will be attenuated or amplified depending on the sound's path through space and any obstacles. By manipulating these frequencies, an illusion can be created that the sound is coming from a specific direction. Terma used 3D technology to enable pilots to hear where threats are coming from by simulating the natural way we perceive sound direction.

HOW DOES YOUR INNOVATION MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
3D sound significantly enhances pilots' situational awareness. In fighter jets, the primary function is to provide personal audio for communication purposes and navigation. The pilot can hear other pilots' conversations from the directions they are located using 3D sound. The direction of the sound can also be crucial in critical situations. By being able to hear exactly where a threat is coming from, pilots can react faster and more effectively, increasing their safety and the mission's success rate.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
We are most proud that our technology has found applications in several areas, both in the military but also with the potential to save lives in other dangerous environments such as firefighting. It shows that our research has wide applicability and can make a real difference in many different contexts.